keypunch

[ kee-puhnch ]

/ ˈkiˌpʌntʃ /

noun

Also key punch. Also called card punch. a machine, operated by a keyboard, for coding information by punching holes in cards or paper tape in specified patterns.

verb (used with object)

to punch holes in (a punch card or paper tape), using a keypunch.

to insert (data) into a computer by means of a keypunch: to keypunch code numbers.

Nearby words

keynote,
keynote address,
keynoter,
keypad,
keypal,
keyring drive,
keys,
keyserling,
keyslot,
keysmash

Origin of keypunch

First recorded in 1930–35; key¹ + punch¹

Related formskey·punch·er, noun

Word Origin and History for keypunch

keypunch

1933, from key (n.1) + punch (v.).